Lawyer tapped as topper of SABC

World Brief

Dali Mpofu, a lawyer with no broadcasting industry experience, has been appointed group CEO of the South African Broadcasting Corp.

Mpofu, 42, succeeds Peter Matlare, who resigned in January amid speculation over alleged irregularities surrounding the commissoning of local programming and personality and policy clashes with executives.

Mpofu has proven his ability to bring opposing parties together, a management skill that could come in handy at an increasingly divided SABC. However, concerns have been raised about his lack of experience.

He previously worked for the African National Congress’ welfare arm and in the justice department and was an acting labor court judge. He’s best known for chairing the team that drafted the empowerment charter for the technology and communications industry.

Mpofu said he was not keen on interfering in the “technical or journalistic side of things,” but would instead provide leadership. “The SABC is bigger than any individual.”